Hello! This is my first post here, but I've been reading through the forums for quite some time. I'm interested in pursuing a masters degree in Industrial Organizational psychology, but am curious about what other users here think could help me maximize my chances of acceptance the most.
Some information:
-I am interested primarily in masters programs because of their length, and because my goals lie in application and consulting, rather than academics.
-I am currently a junior double majoring in Sociology and Psychology.
-Overall GPA: 3.94
-Sociology/Psychology GPAs: both 4.0
-Currently working in a Social Psych lab which I plan to continue through the year/possibly next year.
-Also currently a TA for a sociology class
-I haven't yet taken the GRE, and I know this is a huge factor, but I plan to study rigorously.
-My LOR will come from the professor I TA for, the director of the Social Psych lab, andddd ????
still working on that last one.
I am interested in the programs at NYU, Columbia (Teacher's College), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and a few others. I have had a hard time finding rankings for these programs (SIOP is about all I've come across so far) I am interested in these schools because of post-graduation employment options and location.
My main question is what I should do for the remainder of my degree... I have a few options
1. I could graduate a semester early.
2. I could add on a minor in Human Resources. (Looked for a stats minor, but my university does not offer one) Or some other minor if anyone here has other relevant suggestions!
3. I could continue in the Social Psych lab through the rest of my undergraduate career, and work in another lab simultaneously for my senior year.
4. I could pursue an honors thesis in sociology (doing an independent research project) I would do this in the psych department but their rules about sequencing are more strict and therefore I could not do it there and graduate on time.
5. I could not do any of these, and take underwater basket weaving, chess, and bowling my spring semester senior year
Basically I just don't know what will look the best to admissions for these programs. I know research experience is a big factor for Phd programs, but I'm not sure how much masters programs will focus on this. Especially since the thesis would be in sociology rather than psychology. (This would also be the more work-intensive option so I don't want to do it unless the pay off will be substantial)
I appreciate any input or suggestions of ANYTHING I could/should be doing in the next year or two to be the best possible applicant
Thanks so much! There is no IO focus at my school whatsoever so finding information has been a bit tough